Meghlas spin routs Pakistan as Tigresses storm into the final

Bangladesh A Women booked their place in the final of the Women’s Rising Asia Cup with a dominant victory. On Friday at the Thirdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok, they defeated Pakistan A Women by 54 runs in the semifinal to secure a spot in the title clash.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Bangladesh got off to a steady start. Ishma Tanjim and Shamima Sultana added 19 runs for the opening stand. Shamima scored 13, while Ishma departed for 12 with the team total on 39. Sharmin Sultana then made 15, but Bangladesh found themselves under pressure at 44 for 3.

Captain Fahima Khatun steadied the innings with a responsible knock of 40 runs, providing the backbone of the total. She built a 31-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Lata Mondol, who contributed 6 runs. In the end, Bangladesh A Women posted 110 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.

For Pakistan, Hafsa Khalid claimed two wickets, while Wahida Akhtar, Momina Riasat, Anusha Nasir, and Omaima Sohail picked up one wicket each.

Chasing 111, Pakistan A Women struggled against disciplined Bangladeshi bowling from the outset. They lost five wickets for just 30 runs and never recovered. Under relentless pressure, Pakistan were bowled out for only 56 runs in 16.4 overs.

Sanjida Akter Meghla delivered a standout performance with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 6 runs in 3.6 overs. Captain Fahima Khatun claimed two wickets, while Fariha Trishna, Fatema Jahan, and Farzana Yasmin took one wicket each.

With this emphatic win, Bangladesh A Women confirmed their place in the final of the Women’s Rising Asia Cup. They will face India A Women in the final on February 22, as the Tigresses now await a shot at the title.